The need for infrastructure investments across the country is great and has been in the news a lot lately. The American Society for Civil Engineers (ASCE) estimates that the country will need to spend $3.6 trillion by 2020. The same group gave the country's infrastructure a D+ rating for 2013. Illinois got a C-.
Transportation funding is complicated. Money comes from state, federal and local governments. There is talk of increasing taxes on gasoline both at the state and federal level. Higher gas taxes would cost you, but so do run-down roads and bridges. The ASCE estimates that Illinois' infrastructure needs cost each Illinois motorist $449 a year in expenses, like wear and tear to vehicles and repairs. Where do transportation dollars come from? Who get's what? This new report from the Pew Charitable Trustslays it all out in a clear way with some great visual aids. Give it a look. And next time you hear about gas taxes and transportation spending, you will understand how it all works.